MUMBAI: In a major breakthrough in the investigation of Baba Siddique’s murder, his son and former MLA Zeeshan Siddique has named several builders and politicians in his statement to the Mumbai Police. Zeeshan pointed out disputes surrounding slum redevelopment projects in Bandra as a potential motive behind the assassination.
Zeeshan stated that his late father, a senior NCP leader and advocate for slum dwellers’ rights, often clashed with developers over redevelopment policies. These disagreements escalated to a point where one developer reportedly used abusive language towards Baba Siddique.
Contentious Redevelopment Projects Under Scrutiny
The Sant Dnyaneshwar Nagar slum redevelopment project in Bandra has emerged as a focal point in the investigation. Zeeshan claimed that many developers constantly contacted his father for approvals and assistance in slum redevelopment schemes, which Baba Siddique scrutinized closely to protect the interests of slum residents.
According to Zeeshan, his father’s refusal to bow to pressures from these developers might have led to fatal animosities.
Murder Plot Details Emerge
The investigation revealed that the murder plot was hatched in Pune. The killers, reportedly hired for ₹50,000 each, were given photographs and a flex banner to identify Baba Siddique before carrying out the crime. This revelation has intensified scrutiny of the links between the suspects and prominent real estate players.
Mumbai Police have arrested multiple suspects, including Pravin Lonkar, who allegedly hired the shooters. The involvement of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang is also being investigated due to their suspected connections to the crime.
A Case Highlighting Mumbai’s Political-Criminal Nexus
This case underscores the complex relationship between politics, real estate, and organized crime in Mumbai. As authorities delve deeper into the case, more revelations are expected, potentially implicating key players in the city’s redevelopment projects.
Source: Web Team, C6N
